Spirit of Aphrodite Award

 

Here is a photo of her wearing the costume she won!

 

We asked her to share a little bit about herself:

 

Zenaida Pratts was born in Puerto Rico. She was appointed the name Zeina Zenat for her fast learning of the dance. Since childhood, she was passionate about dance. She started her career in field of the arts in 1996 as a student of dance for three years in the Patria Latore school in San Sebastian, Puerto Rico. In 1999 she began her studies at the Metropolitan University; also this year she started to study modeling, acting, and continued to pursue dance. In 2000 she was a teacher and runway model for various designers. In 2001 she was awarded the prize of “Excellent Teacher and Model” and also was invited to be a guest at special events and other activities. She has been judged in different talent competitions and beauty pageants. She also graduated an architectural drafting program with honors in 2005.

Zeina Zenat is elegant, lively, dedicated and passionate. She combines energy and coquettishness with her own personal touch enhanced by her arm and floor work. She is a unique dancer, versatile, who does not cease to learn. Her stage presence evolves through her varied techniques. Her dance is more improvisational and intuitive than a choreographed routine. 

Zeina Zenat lets the music carry her with simplicity and elegance. Her own style of dance, “Latin Glamour,” is a mix of all forms of belly dancing with reggaton and instrumental Arabic music. The goal is to captivate the audience. Typically, she dances barefoot, using a veil, candles and castanets as props. Unlike other styles, hers incorporates a small wooden stick, decorated for balance routines. She also puts forth much effort on the floor and the usage of castanets without background music.

She compiled all these years of experience to create her own dance manuals for each course she offers. Zeina Zenat offers different courses, levels, seminars and workshops. She directs a dance troop called “Glamour Belly Dancers of Puerto Rico.” Currently she is the Administrative Director, proprietor, and teachers at the New Glamour Model Academy in Hatillo, Puerto Rico. She continues to captivate and fascinate with her presentations and events.

 

 

 

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*Below are the submissions we recieved in their entirety!*

 

Hello everyone at Dahlal Internationale!

It is my pleasure to nominate Seraphina, for your Spirit of Aphrodite Award.  
She has inspired me and many others over the past several years in so many ways.  She is a bellydance performer and instructer in the Auburn/Opelika, Alabama area who created Otaku Tribal Fusion bellydance.  She has been teaching  bellydance there for the past 12 years. Before she started bellydance, she was taught ballet for many years and was an assistant teacher for ballet students ages 3-6.  While practicing ballet one day, she broke her foot and was unable to continue ballet.  She didn't give up at that point, she was introduced to bellydance and found her calling.  She is a natural born teacher and performer.  She has performed in Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and Florida. Before every performance, she tells her audience that body type, size and shape doesn't matter and for them to believe in themselves.  She tells them that bellydance is for everyone.  Marie has Endometriosis and suffers incredible pain and nausea as well as hyperthyroidism.  She tells her audience and her students to never give up on your dreams, despite an illness or any other negative influence.  Marie continues to spread awareness for Endometriosis and plans to sponsor another yellow ribbon event at AWA, a convention in Atlanta the end of next month.  She is a wonderful instructor as many of her students continue taking her classes for other terms.  Marie is a beautiful dancer and caring instructor.  Everyone that sees her perform leaves with a smile on there face.  I nominate Marie Arledge for the Spirit of Aphrodite Award as I feel she is exactly who you are looking for.

 

Thank you so much!

 

Billye Williams

 

Recommending 'Seraphina' for the Aphrodite Award!

 

Seraphina is not only an artist, but an inspiration to many. I have never been comfortable with my body, but she has encouraged me and empowered me to believe in myself and to be confident in who I am. And this isn't only for me, either. She dedicates her time to empowering other young women, sometimes even doing it for free. Being the 'Otaku' Bellydancer, Marie can often be seen at anime conventions teaching and sharing her art with others. It is, in fact, how I met her.

 

Furthermore, Seraphina does all of this, pours her heart and soul into it all while suffering difficult health problems. I have never met a more dedicated and graceful fighter.

 

I believe Seraphina has more than earned this award. She is a beautiful dancer, but more importantly - she is a beautiful person.

 

- Bevi

 

Seraphina has been my belly dance teacher and friend for two years. She is amazing for keeping alive a vibrant dance community in a small Southern town.  She has been able to inspire people to try and keep dancing by always staying positive in her classes, giving us lots of encouragement. She does all of these things in spite of struggles with health issues that can make dancing difficult.  

 

Best,
Nicole German

 

Nomination of Loaya Iris Quesada
I am honored to enthusiastically support the nomination of Loaya Iris Quesada to Dahlal’s contests for the Spirit of Aphrodite Award. Loaya exemplifies the spirit of Love and Beauty in all she does, in how she teaches, and in the way she lives. She is an icon of guidance to all who knows her no matter their age. She possesses a powerful enthusiasm for teaching and is extremely charismatic.
I have known Loaya for about a year and a half and in that short amount of time she has truly inspired me to never give up and that anything is possible. Her shipments and guidance not only in dance but in other areas have created in me a love towards dance that I thought I could never feel towards anything at my age. I’m a College Professor that in her mid-40’s decided to learn how to belly dance. When I approached her with some trepidation due to my age and thinking I was too old to learn to dance she beamed a smile so sweet and with radiant eyes and enthusiastically said to me “There is no age in belly dance”; I was immediately impacted by the energy she radiated.
Her enthusiasm and love for teaching was evident from the beginning. Loaya has an amazing ability to connect with all her students no matter what their level of knowledge in dance or their age. Through her teaching and personality she has instilled in me and in other dance students not only love for this dance but also love for life and ourselves; because as she says beauty comes in all packages. The way she presents herself in class and outside of it made me change from merely dancing as a hobby to a passion in which I know now I can’t be without dancing.
Loaya’s dedication to her students is such that she prepares and reads extensively about what she will be teaching. She is kind and patient has excellent rapport with everyone. Before she teaches anything she presents a background of what we are going to learn. Her natural compassion is evident through the intense dedication to student learning and achievement. Her unwavering enthusiasm and love is apparent in her warm welcomes and instantly assures students that they are capable of achieving anything and everything not only in class but in life. She is true beauty and inspiration.

 

Omy OM Vedbraaten Mig
Diana Lee Huertas Diaz

 

Sasha
When I first joined Bellydance classes 4 years ago, I never thought how much of an impact and difference it would have on my life… and all for the better. I never met anyone as uplifting as Sasha (my instructor). I joined classes because I had a burning desire for it and because after all I was and have been through I needed something to keep me motivated. First of all, Sasha is very dedicated to belly dancing, her love, passion and enthusiasm shines through, and it is incredible to see that. I have been through a lot, such as having lupus, several surgeries in the past and most recently spinal surgery… I am saying this because Sasha has inspired me in so many ways. Her support is unbelievable and her faith in me is what got me in through everything. Knowing I have such a great mentor I feel like I can accomplish anything that comes my way, whether it’s a positive or a negative situation. Having such a great amount of support and faith in someone is amazing, and that having been Sasha in me is something I always dreamt of! Since day one I always wanted to make Sasha proud. She sends me off to do private parties on my own, and solos. It makes me extremely pleased that she believes in me. And now, I get invited from other dancers to dance at their show, words cannot described how amazing that feels! I couldn’t have done this without Sasha or be where I am today without her, because she inspires me... she inspires me to keep pushing forward and never give up. She taught me that when you have a desire for Bellydance, you’ll be getting closer to your dreams and goals. She is the most supportive instructor there is. I cannot thank her enough for all the beautiful things she has done. She is more than a mentor to me; she is my best friend, and sister.
Priscilla Vasquez

 

Theresa Daniels owns a small dance studio in Kirkwood. She is a single mom who home schooled her kids while teaching tap, ballet, piano, Zumba and belly dance to adults and children. After a few weeks of not feeling well, on August 15, 2012, her friends found her almost comatose and she was admitted to the hospital. Her diagnosis was Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and she received chemotherapy and blood transfusions over the next 4 months. She continued to teach as much as possible and choreographed dances for all her classes for a show to be performed at Jefferson Barracks in December for the hospital bound veterans.
Late December, she became very ill again and had to be transferred to SLU hospital where she spent time in the bone marrow transplant unit before being diagnosed with an opportunistic case of Cytomegalo Virus which came close to killing her. One year after the onset of her disease, she is back teaching classes most days of the week and is again choreographing for the annual veterans show.
Theresa has a spirit that will not stop. She has remained positive throughout all this, and she continues to inspire her dancers to have fun and give their all. Winning this award would let her know that all her efforts and her kind, gentle, funny ways of instructing are appreciated by all those with whom she comes into contact .

 

Rita Chrivia

 

Kendra Ray might be intimidating if she weren’t such a wonderfully kind and open person. As a teacher, she pushes her students with irresistible enthusiasm. Her commitment to the academic aspects of Middle Eastern dance as well as the beautiful precision of her dancing inspires me to learn the roots of belly dance and its many variations. Most of all, she’s simply a joy to watch. 
Katie Becker

 

Here is what I think of my teacher and friend, Leyla Zahar. It is a pity we're not allowed to write more than 400 characters, because this artist and amazing human being deserves more than a whole book to talk about her. She has touched so many lives for good that now is uncountable. There is Belly Dance in PR, just because of her.

 

My opinion:

 

It wasn’t until I met Leyla Zahar, that I truly understand what really means when a woman dances the Raks Sharqi. She’s the pioneer of  the genre in PR and my personal instructor for years. I’ve seen Leyla’s unlimited will to give, to deliver, to care for her students and the dance as well.
She has this incredible touch to teach love and passion for the dance, for the profession. Even teaching handicapped people with patience, love and tenderness. Once, she taught a young girl who was deaf and blind, just with bass vibration and touching, amazing! You should see the girl’s satisfaction on her face. Inspiring! She says: “The ultimate form of love is giving, and the most beautiful way of giving is dancing.”

 

Hope she get that award. She deserves it.
Thanks.

 

Velma V.

 

 

 

Hello at Dahlal International,
 
I nominate Delilah Flynn. She is a fabulous dancer and does a lot to promote belly dancing and feminine empowerment in the Seattle community.  She has many informative instruction videos and hosts a Hawaii retreat every year as well as dancing in the local Fremont Solstice parade.  She is truly a jewel to the belly dance community and we are lucky to have her here locally.
 
Thank you,
Sonya Faugno

 

Hello Dahlal,

 

I would like to nominate Christy Fricks of Athens, GA for the Spirit of Aphrodite award.  There are so many talented and wonderful instructors in the Athens/Atlanta area, but what prompted this nomination was your description of the dancer who would be most suited for this honor (inspirational, courageous, and enthusiastic).  She is an inspiration to me personally as well as many others in the community for reasons I can only hope to convey in this brief message about her.

 

Christy reaches out to her fellow dancers and musicians and invites them openly to share in the unbridled joy of dance and music.   Her passion for music resonates with everyone around her and she encourages all of her dancers to pick up instruments and learn to devour this knowledge and not just find a "nice song for dancing". 

 

Christy has also overcome personal struggles and major injuries while still expressing her passion and enthusiasm for this dance.  Her troupe, Sulukule, and students adore her, learn from her, and support her endeavors with good reason.  Her dance studio, Floorspace, in Athens GA is a warm and friendly atmosphere where other teachers are frequently invited to share their knowledge as well. 

 

Christy embodies the spirit of positivity and community support in a way that shines down on others and motivate them to do the same.

 

Most Sincerely,

 

Jaki Hawthorne
Studio Jaki  &  Jahara Phoenix Dance Company

 

Hello

 

I would like to nominate Anjelica Scannura for this award.  She has been a dancer her entire life and her love of bellydance has taken her all over the world.  She is going to be receiving the Hall of Fame Award in 2014 after winning three categories at this year's Bellydancer of the Universe.  She is also invited to teach her own workshop based on her unique fusion of bellydance and flamenco at this event in Long Beach, California.  In Toronto, she is a sought after performer and her Maltese heritage give an authentic flair to her dancing.  She is also a patient and dedicated teacher at her family-based dance studio in Toronto called Ritmo Studios.  Whether she is teaching or performing, Anjelica is living her ultimate dream!   Her website is www.anjelicascannura.com

 

Sincerely,

 

Valerie

 

 

 

Lusynda Poole
 
Drop dead gorgeous & one of the best dancers.  She connects with her audience with the sheer joy of this dance written on her face.   She's been dancing for over 20 years in both Oriental & ATS. It has been an honor to dance with her for the last 10.  As a size 14 it is especially inspiring to watch a dancer who is thick & curvy move so fluidly & beautifully.  She is also one of the nicest people I know.
 
Photo by Melinda Lee as Blue Lotus Bellydance performed in 40 degree temps at Seafood Festival in St. Augustine Florida
 
thank you
 
Melinda Lee

 

 

> Hi Dahlal!
>
> I want to nominate NYC based dancer Jaida. Jaida is a teacher of
> Egyptian style bellydance and she performs regularly at a local
> restaurant. She is also a Yousry Sharif regular student and travels
> frequently to take workshops around the world. The reason why I picked
> her and no other is because she exemplifies the good qualities a
> dancer should have. She is humble. She never brags about her talent or
> gigs and in fact, takes all advice with utmost humility. She is a hard
> worker. She practices everyday and makes sure that she takes criticism
> and transforms it into new inspiration to become a better dancer. She
> is enthusiastic. Dancers flock to her because of her laid-back
> attitude and because she always is smiling and willing to help. She
> has amazing style. She makes sure to stay healthy and her costumes are
> classy and stylish. She is a great dancer. Jaida has amazing technique
> and is willing to transmit her passion and energy not only to her
> students, but also to her friends. Finally, and this is where I come
> in, Jaida is incredibly giving. She allows her students, friends,
> visiting dancers and anyone who shares a love for this dance to
> perform regularly at the restaurant where she performs. No questions
> asked, and the doors are always open. No competition issues; just a true and honest love for this art form.
> In all honesty, and in 10 years that I've been dancing, I never met
> anyone who exemplifies best the Dahlal spirit than Jaida from NYC.
> Please let her win!
>
> Monica De Jesus

 

    Suhaila Salimpour has served the belly dance community since she was a young girl. She has opened my eyes into new worlds and cultures that I would never know existed. Her enthusiasm and enjoyment for the dance has taught me to love my body and myself. I nominate Ms. Salimpour, because I feel that she has been a great influence over many lives and has educated the world about Cabaret, Tribal, and Fusion. I am an ever devotee to Suhaila for her knowledge and talent.

 

LampDancer2009

 

 

 

Dear Sir or Madam, 
I would like to nominate Amira Iriz for the Spirit of Aphrodite Award. Oh Isis, where do I begin? Well, I have known  Amira Iriz for 10 years. I first learned Middle Eastern  dance with her and I often call her my "Bellydance Fairy Godmother."  She has taught me everything I know about Middle Eastern dance and further encouraged me to go further. 
I first met her when she had a bellydance studio in the Throggs Neck section of the Bronx in New York. 10 years ago there wasn't a bellydance studio, maybe one would find bellydance classes in some gyms if they really looked for it. At that time the most bellydance people saw was the ultra sexed up dancer making exaggerated use of her "assets." Amira represented the dance and the culture very well, very feminine, and respectful. For each dance or prop she taught, she also added the history behind it. She held halfas in her studio and student shows at the iconic Lafayette Bar and Grill which was where I got my start as a Middle Eastern dancer. Through her I met very influential belly dancers and musicians.  Amira is not the type to keep all the good information to herself. She is very giving and helpful. 
For many of us, this is a woman's dance. To me Amira Iriz represents each aspect of a woman just as much as bellydance does. She is an Air Force veteran, retired Master Sergeant. She is also a survivor of violence on the homefront as well. She has been through a lot and still gives of herself in friendship and in the dance as well. She spreads joy through her performance and encourages women to do the same. I myself am I domestic violence survivor. There were times where I didn't want to wake up and times where I really needed to speak with someone. She was there for me. I tell people Bellydance got me through that darkness along with my family and friends.  I credit her for the Bellydance.  
 
I thank you for this opportunity to nominate my good friend and mentor. 
 
--
Happy Shimmies!
 
Nahla

 

 

 

I nominate Isadora Hart oF Colorado Springs, Co. She overcame devestating injuries from a car wreck to dance and teach again. She is a warm, loving fun person and a wonderful teacher. She is just one of the best ever.

 

It is hard to decribe the force of nature that is Izzy. She has overcome so much personal and physical pain with a wacky sense of humor. And she has such a good heart and will go out of her way when she feels a friend need a lift. In addition she is a wonderful dancer who has found her own style and voice in dance. Izzy is not the only reason why I dance, but she inspires me to keep dancing. Here's some photos taken by my husband Mike and I of Isadora Hart, the spaz bunny belly dancer of Colorado.

 

http://www.izzydancer.com/

 

Pat Paiz

 

 

 

hi, I would like to nominate my Bellydance teacher, Chloe Dent, for the inspiration, grace and fun she brings to my life and every class. She runs classes over a large area, but also arranges extra fun events and Bellydance parties and shows.
Classes are always fun and we learn many different styles and are encouraged to be the best that a can but always in a fun way.
Regards
Nicola Gardner

 

 

 

Hello
The dancer I nominate is my teacher Chloe Dent. She is such an inspiration to me and she treats all of her students like family. Whenever I watch her perform I feel so lucky to be learning from her. Before I started belly dancing I was very down and had problems going on at home. My Mum had suddenly died and I started to put on more and more weight where I was comfort eating and my lack of cooking skills. I needed something to lift my spirits and help me get back on track so about 2 years later I finally got the guts to start Chloe's lessons. I quickly learned from her that there is NO way you need to be super skinny for this dance to look beautiful and she just made me feel like I had a purpose again. She quickly gave me the confidence to choreograph and perform my first performance after just 9 months of classes to 150 people (I never imagined ever actually performing) and since then thanks to Chloe, I have done workshops with international teachers who she has hosted and I have really found my own style. There's something very special about Chloe that I cant quite put my finger on. I think it may be her cheekiness while performing, emotion, beauty. You can just tell that she is in love with belly dance.

 

Toni Tupple

 

Inspirational teacher - Chloe Dent
Chloe Lives in Hastings, teaches in Hastings and London (UK).

 

Her classes are always enjoyable and include everyone. her classes are filled with students of every age, shape size and walk of life. there is no bitchiness it is very inclusive -
when i go to her classes I know i will leave in a good mood.
She organises fantastic events, gets great international dancers to teach workshops.
Every year she arranges a seaside weekend retreat for all her students (and students from other classes) with great workshops and finishes it all off with a fantastic party.
She encourages each and every student, works incredibly hard whilst also bringing up two young children - and she does it all with a smile on her face and an amazing sense of humour - she danced at my wedding and everyone loved her. She is without doubt an inspirational teacher and woman. My vote goes to Chloe Dent.

 

Nina Lubowitz

 

Come rain, hail or shine, Chloe will be there brimming with glitz and smiles, always positive and uplifting, we are blessed with such inspiration no matter what the trials and tribulations of the day endured, we can all be sure of an evening that transports us into a unique and challenging world, with a generous helping of laughter to raise our spirits :) Tireless in her work, such dedication and stamina go hand in hand.
All hats off to you, Chloe, one in a million, you are a true star! Thank you :)

 

Wendy xx

 

Hi

 

I'd like to nominate Chloe Dent as the most inspirational dance teacher of my life (I'm 66).  I've been going to Chloe's classes for five years now and love every minute.  The classes are fun and also challenging.  She makes her pupils believe they can do it, so, of course, they can.  She can turn a group of non-dancers into a polished, competent troupe.  She's simply brilliant!

 

Regards

 

Joan

 

I'd like to nominate chole dent. She's been my teacher for 2 years now,  she's not only a fablious dancer but she's become a great friend. she make dancing look so effortless & you can't help but get caught up in her enthusiasm. One of her best attributes is the fact that she makes you feel like a glamorous dancer no matter what level you are, she's never condescending in the way she teaches. She absolutely loves to dance and it really comes across. 
She has helped me alot over the last two years my husband has a illness called ehlers danlos syndrome and I had to give up work to become his carer, it's been tough but I've had chole's support the whole way
I feel truly blessed to have met her. I know I've gone over the 400 characters but its hard not to and trust me when I say I could of said alot more about how truly amazing Chloe is. 

 

Victoria Parsons

 

  I would like to nominate my love, Jessi Hamilton.  For all the time I have been lucky enough to know her, she has been a source of inspiration and support for all those around her.  For years Jessi has been a contributing member of Habibi Hips, the experimental-tribal-fusion bellydance performance troupe out of Lafayette Louisiana.  She has studied the art of bellydance since her first introduction in 2006.  In belly dance she found strength and beauty in movement, and in her neighborhood Oasis Studio, she found a second home.  She is a loving mother who, when not juggling her two adorable children, still finds time to balance a sword on her head and work her veil.  She is also an experienced seamstress who enjoys making and customizing the many costumes collected over the years. In addition to dancing with her Habibi Hips sisters, she can also be spotted shimmying her way around the Louisiana Renaissance Festival, and performing with the Whiskey Bay Rovers piratical band.  She is a wellspring of creativity and unyielding dedication to every job she sets herself to. She loves all things dance, horses, and anything Celtic.  This fiery redhead is a sparkling garnet that I am truly lucky to have found in my life.
Thank you for your consideration,
Cortney Begnaud

 

I would like to nominate Heather, Sherena, Hendrix who best exemplifies the spirit of Love and Beauty. I've taken dance with others before, but once I started to take classes at her studio I knew I was happy. My passion for bellydance started to grow as I continued to take classes from her and she's given me so many opportunities to learn and experience as much as I possibly can. We've done benefits for individuals that have had cancer, which was so touching just to be able to make someone else's day a little better. When I first met her I wanted to be just like her, but she taught me that everyone is different and has their different styles. There has not been one time that I left her studio not feeling better than I did before I came. She's very uplifting and is a great role model. She's taught me respect, responsibility and a growing love for dance. She's an example to everyone that nothing is impossible, because in between her busy schedule and teaching classes she always takes time to dwell on the small things and she keeps everyone in her thoughts. As a result of being who she is, her dance studio, Art In Motion, has grown so much and it really shows that hard work pays off. Heather has been my biggest inspiration as well as everyone else's. It's amazing to see how many people look up to her as a dancer and such an amazing person! Please nominate Heather! :)

 

Maria

 

My nominee is Rachel Estrada Bush.  She is a beautiful person inside and out, check out her picture!  She is the most graceful and fluid dancer, I often find myself watching her instead of our teacher.  Her smile is contagious and comes from the her heart, she truly has a “gentle spirit”.  Rachel is courageous because she has battled cancer and remains cancer free for over 2 years!  She is an inspiration to us all, always reminding us to get our cancer screening!
 
 
 
Submitted by Linda Farmer

 

 

 

Hello!

 

I have the absolute perfect person to nominate for this award. Her name is Danielle Elizabeth and she is a phenomenal dancer/producer/musician based out of Portland, OR. 
I first met this lovely lady about 6 years ago when I began dancing and I had great admiration and respect for her from the moment I saw her move. Little did I know that she was also a beautiful and generous human being!
She produces a monthly bellydance show in Portland, plays with various local ensembles, dances in Rachel Brice's Datura, is always inspiring those around her with her deep love and respect for this dance and infectious smile and is just downright nice. I've had the pleasure of touring with her and producing shows with her and she cares so deeply for the people around her it is amazing! She is also gorgeous. Like, really. I couldn't think of a more worthy recipient of this award.

 

Sincerely, 

 

 
*Bevin Victoria** CPT
Award-winning Tribal Fusion Dance
Hybrid BellyDance & Fitness
Director of Urban Nomad Dance Co.
http://www.hybridbellydance.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hybrid-BellyDance

 

Nominating Liezel Lane of Atlanta SEEDs - Self Esteem Empowerment and Education through Dance. Her life mission is changing the world one girl at a time accepting every student irrespective of social or economic status or physical attributes. For girls 6-18 years, she not only teaches dance but walks them through life challenges. She builds their confidence by teaching them leadership and communication skills and builds a sense of community. Many girls learn for free and come from single parent families.
www.atlantaseedsmentoringforgirls.com

 

Zaia Hadiyyah

 

I'd like to nominate Joharah from Canada for the Spirit of Aphrodite Award.
Here's my little blurb about her:
From the moment I saw her dance for the first time, I knew Joharah was very special. I became her student right away, and the more I got to know her, the more I grew to highly respect and admire her. Joharah is a professional dance instructor and performer with her own dance studio (two, in fact) in Ontario, who I believe has made a very notable impact in the dance community. Saying she’s an inspiration is an understatement! She’s a fantastic teacher, supportive mentor, innovative choreographer, and exquisite dancer. She works very hard at what she does, has travelled internationally to study, teach and perform, and also brings highly respected dance instructors to her own studio for special events. Her studio is an oasis among the most gorgeous of any; she has transformed it into a belly dancers’ paradise and many friendships have started there. She is very creative, knowledgeable, and dedicated to the art form, and it clearly shows. She truly does capture the essence of Middle Eastern Dance and leaves no stone unturned. She's a genius! I am so grateful to have learned so much from her and she simply blows me away. Joharah is a jewel who definitely deserves recognition!
Laura Varga

 

I wish to nominate Ms Susan Shu for the Spirit of Aphrodite Award. Susan started her classes at a town years back from scratch. Due to her passion and her dedications to the oriental dance, she has won the hearts of many rapidly. We love her for sharing with us this art truly. She does not only teaches us bd. She will share with us other things like how to do make up and many more.
Alice Boon

 

I would like to nominate Brenda Callahan. She has been studying dance for many years. Always researching and improving and teaching. Her knowledge of the different styles is amazing. She is a plus size woman who moves with grace and skill. She is always motivating others to have confidence in themselves no matter the size or age. She is an inspiration to all her friends, family, and students. picture to follow or on her facebookShe has been teaching dance since 1989.
Mary Whisante

 

I would like to nominate my extraordinary instructor, Seba Blanchard, for the Spirit of Aphrodite award. Patient, unfailingly cheerful, and skilled beyond compare, Seba is the essence and inspiration of WildCard BellyDance. Her enthusiasm for dance shines from within. She is always available for advice, solutions, and encouragement, and she soothes our pre-show jitters with her million-watt smile.
Kathryn Atwood

 

 

I'd like to nominate Pave Vinovich Johnson of Pava Productions. she has committed her life to bringing the joy of dance to the Peoria area not only as a wonderful entertainer but as a fantastic teacher. Pava not only teaches us how to dance but shows all the joy in life and how we are all beautiful in our own right no matter size or age. Pava embraces and shares all that is good in life through her dance.

Kate Shields Thompson

 

 

I would like to nominate Pava! Always encouraging, always a beacon of positive light. She dances with such spirit and grace, never losing sight of the fun. Despite neuropathy, she continues to choreograph fresh, insightful dances, teaches four nights a week, performs whenever an opportunity arises, and always has a moment to listen to all of us girls, no matter what the situation. She truly is like a mother and sister to all of us.
Kayla Bennett

 

Hello Dahlal!
I would like to nominate my instructor Pava Vinovich Johnson from Bartonville, IL to win the Aphrodite Award. Pava, in my opinion, is a wonderful example of Aphrodite incarnate. She displays beauty and passion outwardly in her art of dance as well as in her actions and words. Pava always has a kind word and a smile for anyone that she encounters, she has an aura that can fill a room. Just knowing her has brightened my life.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
~Jennifer~

 

Marshall Green Fleur
Dear Dahlal
I would like to nominate Amani from Lebanon as a wonderful teacher and dancer of belly dancing, wishing everyone good luck
Fleur

 

Tina Muzzi
Hi! I'd like to nominate Nadira Jamal of Somerville, MA. She exudes a joy and enthusiasm for bellydance that is contagious and leaves all of her students with a smile. Her love of teaching and unique, fun personality are evident in every class . She places a strong emphasis on creating a body-positive environment where women of all shapes and sizes can immerse themselves in the experience of feeling good in their bodies. Nadira has created the perfect blend of focusing on the development of good bellydance technique while simultaneously encouraging students to experiment with what particular stylistic choices feel the best for them. The chance to learn and play through the joy that is bellydance is always available in Nadira's classes and I always leave feeling great down to my soul.
Her websites are
http://www.bellydancesomerville.com/
and
http://www.bellydancegeek.com/

 

She is simply the best!!
-Tina
Belly Dance Somerville
www.bellydancesomerville.com

 

Schirtzinger Joel
https://www.facebook.com/karmelita13
Dahlal Internationale
August 21Dahlal Internationale
Thanks! Just make sure we have permission to share one
Schirtzinger Joel
August 21

 

 

 

I would like to Nominate Karma Karmelita, AKA Erin Grundel for the Aphrodity award.
I have known her close to ten years now and she has gone through a great transformation. When I first met her while we both working a Renaissance Fair, I was running children's games, & she was a pudgy fire dancer in a demon outfit. I got to know her as a gaming geek with a beautiful personality. Over the years she has transformed herself into the dancer she is now; but, she's still a geek at heart & her personality hasn't changed a bit.
Schirtzinger Joel

 

Mahsati Janan
Spirit of Aphrodite award nomination:

 

Dancer: Reyna (Robin Dawman) of the Rising Sun Tribe in Morganton, NC.

 

While living in a very conservative area, Reyna and her husband have brought in amazing instructors, developed their own form of ITS, supported a huge community of dancers from multiple states, and continue to teach/perform. Without Reyna's dedication and vision for a United Bellydance League, there would be far fewer opportunities for dancers to work together towards our common success.

 

Dahlal Internationale
August 21Dahlal Internationale
Thanks so much for sharing! Before the end of the submission period (Aug 31st) we would like to verify that the nominees are aware of your submission and that their photo and story will be used in the contest. Please reply when you have verified that the use of their photo and story is permitted before the voting period begins! We are excited about this contest and thank you for your submission! Good Luck, she sounds wonderful!
Mahsati Janan
August 21Mahsati Janan
Thanks! I have confirmed/verified with her.

 

I would like to nominate Zeina Zenat (Zenaida Pratts).She is from Puerto Rico.She has a modeling academy and teaches belly dance.She is very a very good teacher and very passionate. She has a group of belly dancers. She is always trying to add something new to the dance to benefit her students. She is a very happy person,easy going but also very disciplined in the classroom.Her students enjoy her classes annd her personality.
Marysol Montalvo
I nominate Zeina Zenat (Zenaida Pratts).She is from Puerto Rico.She has a modeling academy and teaches belly dance.She is very a very good teacher and very passionate.She has a group of belly dancers.
She is always trying to add something new to the dance to benefit her students.She is a very happy person,easy going but also very disciplined in the classroom.Her students enjoy her classes annd her personality.She earned a trophy in 2001 as Excellent Teacher and Model in Classic Model in San Sebastian,Puerto Rico.
Miriam Soberal

 

Hello
I would like to nominate Margie Hyde (aka Ligaya), Director of The Zerdali Dancers.
Ligaya is an amazing woman. She works tirelessly to bring belly dance to our small town. She is always sweet and kind and has a smile on her face. Ligaya epitomizes grace, talent and beauty. I cannot imagine a more wonderful friend and mentor. She is not only an amazing dancer but one of the strongest women I know. She is a breast cancer survivor and we are happy to donate the proceeds of our shows to the American Cancer Society. Ligaya directs a large troupe in Paducah, KY. and has maintained a troupe for over 30 years, quite a feat in a small town!
Lisa Mead

 

I would like to nominate Miss Clara Mongoose of Floorspace Dance in Athens, GA.
Miss Mongoose is the very spirit of love and beauty! She sees talent and possibilities in all of her students no matter how shy or inept they feel. With a mix of humor, patience, and encouragement she makes every student feel like the center of her world. She constantly stretches herself to the edge of sanity to be available for everything that anyone in the community might need her for, and she does it all with a smile and hugs for everyone. Currently she teaches at Floorspace, is in charge of the dance performance in a local musical, a member of two very active performance troupes, and maintains a full time position at an office as well. She inspires me daily and makes me think "I want to be just like her". Since photos are worth a thousand words please find two beautiful pictures of Miss Mongoose attached!
Kim Bosecker

 

Mahsati Janan of Asheville, NC is my nomination for your 2013 Spirit of Aphrodite Award. Not only is she an astounding dancer, skilled in everything from Classical Egyptian to Ghawazee, she is also a genius teacher and advocate the art of Middle Eastern Dance.
As an instructor, she is patient and kind, yet thorough and exacting. She bases her teaching in historical context and also offers a technical foundation second to none. Never one to let her students get complacent, she is forever challenging us to be our best and explore new skills and styles.
She is never too busy to answer questions, always willing to help with everything from costuming to movement breakdown to business advice. She shares selflessly of her knowledge and herself, in class or on stage. Known to bring down the house with her emotionally vulnerable and mesmerizing performances, few can take their eyes from her when she performs.
Just this spring, she organized, planned, and choreographed the sold out, three-night-run Raqs Layali Show in Asheville, NC, which featured a range of belly dance styles from Egyptian and Turkish to ATS, Saiidi, Ghawazee, Fusion and Hip Hop Fusion, as well as a Zeffa processional. For this event, she spent months teaching dancers from all over the area these styles and routines, helping with costume design, sewing and strategizing - and still found time to make everyone involved in the show a gift bag. Not only was this show educational for the general audience of the community who came out to see it, but it was also educational and inspirational for all the dancers involved. In everything she touches, she seeks to offer education and understanding of this art form in its full context.
This woman is a gem and a wonder, filled with skill and knowledge and generosity and I can’t think of anyone better to nominate for this award!
Paige Christie

 

Lori McCarthy
Hi there! I would like to nominate Eileen Goren of Lakeville, MN for the Spirit of Aphrodite Award.
Eileen is the office director and a dancer at Jawaahir Dance Company (Cassandra Shore's company in Minneapolis). I met her in June 2012 at Cassandra's Weeklong Intensive workshop, where she was one of Cassandra’s teaching assistants. During the week, she was so lovely and gentle in offering help and suggestions to me and to other workshop attendees. She was always upbeat and friendly, and was a cheerleader to us all during the workshops when we would be dragging at the end of the long day. Just watching her, it was so very evident how much she enjoys dancing and being with her sisters in dance.
At the end of the week, she revealed to me that she had recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, and would be starting treatment after the intensive workshop was completed. She had asked her doctor to postpone the treatments so she could attend and assist at the workshops - she didn't want to miss her "favorite week of the year".
I am pleased to say that in October 2012 she finished her cancer treatments and in June 2013 was declared "a survivor". I think Eileen is so exemplary of courage and grace and beauty when faced with such a personal challenge, such an enthusiastic lover of dance (she also swing dances!), and an ideal and deserving candidate for the Spirit of Aphrodite Award.
Thank you for your consideration,
-Lori McCarthy
Holyoke, Massachusetts

 

Danse Bió Dagar Mooney
I would like to nominate Solange of Babylonia Tribal for your recognition award.
Solange is full of unbridled enthusiasm for life, and her fellow dancers. She tells it like it is, encourages those around her, is full of compassion, and is inspirational for upcoming dancers. She has trained Australian dancers of note, like tribal fusion dancer, Kalikah Jade.
But Solange is also a woman to be admired. She battles cancer - and doesn't talk about it. She decided to have a pity party for half an hour, and then got on with life. Her attitude is one that nothing is going to beat her... and so far, she's right. Not long after surgery, they told her she would have agony raising her arm. When they asked her to do it, she raised it above her head.
Her theory is: if I can't get my arm above my head, I can't dance. And I'm not going to live like that.
This woman is the most amazing woman I've met in a very long time. I believe that your award would honor her, her spirit, and her contribution to the world of belly dance.
thanks -Leticia
PS Her profile is at https://www.facebook.com/solange.babylonia?fref=ts